The Investigative Panel constituted by the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) to probe the recent structural failure at the Gombe State House of Assembly Complex has approved the controlled evacuation of debris from the affected section to pave the way for a comprehensive investigation.
Addressing journalists in Gombe on Tuesday, the Chairman of the COREN Investigation Panel, Engr. Ishaka Lawan, FNSE, represented by Engr. Lawan Abdullahi, said the decision to allow the contractor remove the collapsed structural components followed the panel’s preliminary assessment of the site.
He explained that the approval was strictly limited to the controlled evacuation of debris and damaged materials to ensure public safety, provide unhindered access for investigators and preserve the integrity of the site for further technical examination.
According to him, the approval should not be misconstrued as authorisation for the contractor to resume construction work on the project.
“The contractor is hereby given temporary approval to commence the controlled evacuation and removal of the collapsed debris, damaged structural components and other obstructions within the affected area. This approval is solely intended to ensure public safety, facilitate access for further technical investigations and preserve the integrity of the site.
“It is important to emphasise that this is not a final approval for the contractor to resume or continue the permanent construction works,” he stated.
The panel chairman disclosed that the investigation is being carried out in line with the committee’s Terms of Reference and involves a comprehensive forensic and technical assessment aimed at determining both the immediate and underlying causes of the structural failure.
He stressed that a decision on the continuation of construction would only be taken after the panel concludes its investigation and submits its report and recommendations to the appropriate authorities.
Engr. Lawan also clarified that the incident affected only the entrance canopy of the proposed Gombe State House of Assembly Complex and not the main building, urging the public to disregard misleading information suggesting otherwise.
“The structural failure occurred only at the entrance canopy of the proposed State House of Assembly Complex. This distinction is important to ensure that the public receives accurate information,” he said.
He commended the Gombe State Government for its cooperation, professionalism and commitment to due process since the commencement of the investigation.
The panel appealed to residents to remain calm and patient while the investigation continues, urging them to rely only on official information from the COREN Investigation Panel.
Stressing the panel’s commitment to professionalism, Engr. Lawan assured that the investigation would be thorough, impartial and evidence-based, with public safety and engineering standards remaining the overriding priorities.
He noted that the panel would ensure that any future decisions regarding the project are guided strictly by sound engineering principles and the recommendations contained in its final report.
